FROGS AND TOADS

Authors

Paul E. Moler, Wildlife Biologist, Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Wildlife Research Laboratory, Gainesville, Florida 32601

Date of this Version

January 1994

Abstract

Frogs and toads are amphibians with four legs and no tail. At least 85 species of frogs are native to the United States, and there are three well-established exotic species. Frogs occur in almost all nonmarine habitats. Most frogs have a two-phased life cycle, including an aquatic larval form (tadpole) and a terrestrial or semiaquatic adult form. Although some species spend most of their adult lives away from water, most frogs native to North America must return to water to lay eggs. The greatest potential for economic damage is at fish farms and hatcheries. Laws pertaining to frogs vary from state to state.